What you need to know before you start

A New York security license is issued by the New York Department of State and lets you work as a security guard, armed guard, or in related roles. The process takes roughly four to eight weeks from process to license in hand, and you will need to pass a background check, take a written exam, and complete fingerprinting. Unlike a driver's license, a security license requires you to work for a licensed security company — you cannot straightforward carry one and work independently.

New York has two main types of security licenses: an unarmed guard license (the most common) and an armed guard license (which requires additional training and a separate firearms endorsement). Most people start with the unarmed license. The armed license is only available if you already hold a valid New York pistol permit or are a retired law enforcement officer.

Key Takeaways

  • You must be at least 18 years old, a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, and have no felony convictions or certain misdemeanors to hold a security license in New York.
  • The process goes through the New York Department of State Division of Licensing Services, and you will need to submit fingerprints, a photo, and proof of identity.
  • You must pass a written exam covering New York security law, emergency procedures, and basic security practices before the license is issued.
  • Your employer (the security company) must sponsor your process — you cannot obtain a license without a job offer from a licensed firm.
  • An unarmed license costs around $100 to $150 and is valid for three years; an armed license costs more and requires proof of firearms training.

Meet the basic requirements

You must be at least 18 years old and either a U.S. citizen or a lawful permanent resident (green card holder). New York will deny a license if you have been convicted of a felony or certain misdemeanors — specifically crimes involving dishonesty, violence, or drug trafficking. You also cannot hold a license if you are subject to a restraining order, have been involuntarily committed to a psychiatric facility within the past five years, or are currently on probation or parole.

You will need a valid photo ID (driver's license, passport, or state ID card) and a Social Security number. If you have a criminal record that is not a felony, contact the Department of State directly to ask whether your specific conviction disqualifies you — some misdemeanors do not bar you from licensure, but others do.

Find a security company to sponsor you

Before you can explore for a license, you must have a job offer from a New York-licensed security company. The company itself must hold a valid license from the Department of State. Your employer will help you complete the process and will submit it on your behalf or alongside you.

If you do not yet have a job, search for security companies in your area and ask whether they hire unlicensed guards and sponsor them through the licensing process. Many larger firms do this routinely. Once you have a job offer in writing, you and your employer can move forward with the process.

Submit your process and fingerprints

Your employer will obtain the process form from the New York Department of State Division of Licensing Services or read it from the state website. You will fill out the form with your personal information, work history, and references. The form asks about any arrests, convictions, or civil judgments — answer truthfully, as false statements can result in denial or revocation.

You must submit two sets of fingerprints taken by a licensed fingerprinting service. Many police precincts, security companies, and private fingerprinting vendors in New York offer this service for a small fee (typically $10 to $25 per set). The fingerprints go to the New York State Police and the FBI for a background check. You will also need to provide a recent passport-style photo (usually 2 by 2 inches) and a copy of your valid photo ID.

Mail or deliver the completed process, fingerprints, photo, and ID copy to the Department of State Division of Licensing Services at the address listed on the form. Include the process fee (around $100 to $150 for an unarmed license). Keep a copy of everything you submit.

Pass the written exam

Once the Department of State receives your process and completes the background check, you will be notified when you are may be able to access to take the written exam. The exam covers New York security law, your duties and limitations as a guard, emergency procedures, and basic security practices. You will have a set time window (usually 30 to 60 days) to schedule and sit for the exam at a testing location approved by the state.

The exam is typically multiple choice and lasts about two hours. You must score at least 70 percent to pass. Study materials are available from the Department of State and from security training companies. If you fail, you can retake the exam after a waiting period (usually 30 days), but you will pay an additional fee each time.

Receive your license and renew it every three years

Once you pass the exam, the Department of State will issue your security license. It will arrive by mail within one to two weeks. Your license is valid for three years from the date of issue. You must carry it with you while working and show it to your employer and to law enforcement if asked.

To renew your license before it expires, you will submit a renewal process to the Department of State, usually 30 to 60 days before the expiration date. The renewal process is simpler than the initial process — you typically do not need to retake the exam or resubmit fingerprints unless the state requests them. Renewal fees are similar to the initial license fee.

Armed guard license and firearms endorsement

If you want to carry a firearm while working as a security guard, you must first obtain an armed guard license instead of (or in addition to) an unarmed license. To may have access to, you must already hold a valid New York pistol permit or be a retired law enforcement officer with proof of service. You cannot obtain a pistol permit solely to get an armed guard license — the permit must be issued for another lawful reason first.

The armed license process includes additional requirements: proof of firearms training (usually a course of at least 8 to 16 hours from a state-approved instructor), a higher process fee (typically $200 to $300), and a more rigorous background check. Your employer must also be licensed to employ armed guards. The written exam for an armed license covers additional material on firearm safety, use of force, and New York law on armed security work.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I work as a security guard while my process is being processed?

No. You cannot legally work as a security guard in New York without a valid license. Some employers may allow you to work in other roles (such as reception or administrative work) while your process is pending, but you cannot perform security duties. Once your license is issued, you can begin security work.

What happens if I move to a different state?

Your New York security license is valid only in New York. If you move to another state, you will need to obtain a security license from that state — the requirements and process vary widely. Contact the licensing authority in your new state to learn what you need to do.

Can I get a security license if I have a misdemeanor on my record?

It depends on the type of misdemeanor and how long ago it occurred. Crimes involving dishonesty, violence, or drugs typically disqualify you. Contact the Department of State Division of Licensing Services with details of your conviction and ask whether you are barred. Some older misdemeanors may not prevent licensure.

How much does a security license cost in total?

An unarmed license costs roughly $100 to $150 in process and exam fees. An armed license costs $200 to $300 or more, depending on the firearms training course you take. Fingerprinting fees (usually $10 to $25 per set) are separate. Your employer may cover some or all of these costs.

What if I fail the written exam?

You can retake the exam after waiting 30 days. You will pay a retake fee each time you sit for the exam. Most people pass on the second or third attempt if they study the provided materials. The Department of State website lists study guides and sample questions.